Lynda Rose is a Rare Flower

Dominican and African-American beauty Lynda Rose has been featured in videos from French Montana, Jeremiah, DJ Spinking, and the inimitable 50 Cent. But her success hasn’t gone to her head: she’s still the same down-to-Earth girl serving bottles every Sunday night at Starlets Gentlemen’s Club in Queens, NY. Referred by Nustarz Management, this week’s Web Candy talks about the stereotypes of urban —models (and how she overcame them), wanting to work with Tom Cruise, and her love for Usher.

People always wanted me to model, but I never dreamed about it because I used to be very self-conscious—I was “the skinny girl with the big butt.” But then I started doing photo shoots with Nyce and Astonishing photos, I took those photos and sent them to different websites and magazines, which led to fashion shows, which led to music videos.

What is one thing you’d like to do, as a model, that you’ve not done yet?

I would like to be featured in a movie with superstars (like Tom Cruise, Sandra Bullock, Denzel Washington, or Tyler Perry). And I also want become the face of a brand, such as beauty products (hair, makeup, skin care products), or maybe one day own my own product.

What would you say was your best modeling experience, and why? What would you say was your worst modeling experience, and why?

My best modeling experience would be my first photo shoot. It was an amazing 8 hour shoot dedicated to me, the photographer was great, the stylist was a close friend of mine and of course was awesome, and the make-up artist was on point with the natural beauty look.

My worst experience as a model would be when I was offered the cover of a magazine that I helped promote, only to be told that I would no longer be on the cover because someone who was more popular would replace me—that the magazine would sell more with an old face rather then a new one.

What would you say is the biggest misconception about urban models? What are you doing to break that stereotype?

The real urban models are full of natural beauty, we aren’t just video girls recognized for only our curves. I miss when music videos were really about the rapper and/or singer and one particular female, now videos are full of any and all type of women who are all looked at as a number. Things have got to change—women need to educate themselves, because this doesn’t last forever. Most models I’ve met are moving up and doing better things in life. I like to see my women grow beyond what they’ve dreamed—to take opportunities and run with them.

Who is your celebrity crush, and why?

Usher Raymond—I’ve loved him since I was in the 5th grade. His music is amazing, he often reminds me of my all-time favorite, Michael Jackson. There was always something about Usher’s smile —he has major sex appeal. Also, I love me some Idris Elba. Now that’s one fine chocolate man I can see myself being married to. His accent is to die for, and he plays excellent characters. Deep down, I’m very attracted to chocolate, clean, smooth skin. Idris is winning in my book.

What does a man have to do to win your heart?

I like a gentlemen in all ways—someone to treat me like they would like to see their mother treated. Someone who enjoys family time, a man who can tolerate shopping with me, a man who understands all people have flaws.

If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring model, what would it be, and why?

Don’t let the game make you or break you, we design ourselves. Stay true to yourself and your loved ones. Most of all, put God first and have faith that everything will fall in line—don’t rush. Don’t take anyone’s BS,there’s better offerings and opportunities out here.